How to hire a Sign Language Interpreter

Imagine you are hosting an event and a deaf individual approaches you, inquiring about deaf/ hard of hearing accommodations. This happens every day, in a variety of venues, in both the public and private sector. What do you do? How do you communicate? Had you even considered this situation?

One of the biggest barriers between Deaf and hearing cultures is the simple act of requesting an interpreter. Many hearing individuals, as discussed in my previous post, have very little interaction with deaf/ HoH people in their daily lives. When they do encounter someone who requires accommodation, it can feel like a challenge to locate the proper resources. Even more challenging, but equally important, is ensuring you find a high-caliber ASL interpreter for the event.

The first step in hiring a sign language interpreter is seeking out a local agency which specializes in ASL. I strongly advise looking for a Deaf-owned, or interpreter-owned provider. Here in NYC, there are some large agencies which hire out interpreters for a variety of languages. Sadly, these businesses often add ASL to their roster to make more money; with little regard for Deaf culture, or the quality of interpreter they provide. A Deaf-owned or interpreter-owned agency will have the best resources to ensure all your deaf/HoH patrons receive the same experience as your hearing patrons. Equality is the ultimate goal!

When you call the agency, be as specific as possible regarding your interpreting needs. Letting the agency know exactly which type of situation they will be accommodating helps to better match you with a qualified interpreter. For example, in a hospital setting, it would be advantageous to hire an interpreter who could not only communicate with both doctors and patients, but one who is also emotionally and mentally prepared to deliver medical news to a patient’s family. If you are able to provide the agency with as much information as possible prior to your event, they can find an interpreter with some background in the field, and allow them to brush up on relevant terminology. A provider who is knowledgeable requires much less preparation, and is capable of providing a much richer interaction.

A professional interpreter will know exactly what to do when they arrive on the job. They will ask appropriate questions regarding standing and seating arrangements, and will request any pertinent info prior to the start of your event. It is a great idea to have an outline ready for your ASL interpreter, which would have key topics, any industry-specific jargon, and a list of important names, places, or figures.

The Federal Government provides financial assistance for businesses to provide deaf/ hard of hearing accommodation. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requires that equal access be provided to persons with disabilities by all public entities (government offices, public schools, etc.) and by all services which are provided to the public at large (doctor’s offices, lawyers, etc.). Generally, this means that such entities are required to pay for sign language interpreting services. To assist businesses with complying with the ADA, Section 44 of the IRS Code allows a tax credit for small businesses and Section 190 of the IRS Code allows a tax deduction for all businesses. This credit can cover 50% of the eligible access expenditures in a year (up to $10,250).

While provisions may be required by law, it is up to you whether your Deaf/ hard of hearing patron will receive the same quality of service you offer your hearing patrons. It is prudent to find an interpreter with more than just the national certification. Strong background knowledge, diverse field experience, and cultural competence will go a long way in providing equal accommodations, and curbing the oppression of deaf/HoH individuals.

Currently, in the greater New York City area, there is one Deaf-owned and four interpreter-owned providers, including myself. For more information about my interpreting services, please contact me.

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I have worked with LC Interpreting Service on many occasions and am always impressed with their customer service, professionalism and care. They are always willing to answer questions from people and organizations at various stages of working with ASL and ASL interpreters and the interpreters are always prompt, knowledgable and friendly.read more

Lydia and her team provided amazing services when I attended a programming boot camp. They did their best to make sure that the interpreters provided were the best fit for my classes and it has made a huge difference. When I wasn’t sure how to assert my right to accessibility, they were there to help me and it has set me up in a better place for the future to know how to assert my rights as a deaf consumer. Thank you!read more

LCIS interpreting services are up to par! Respectful and fun interpreters who understand appropriate boundaries while working (ex: no paternalistic attitude). Their skills are amazing- very fluent and articulate. I know I can count on their interpreters for important events, such as attending a huge mental health conference, providing presentations, participating in group meetings at work, and going to doctoral-level job interviews. FIVE FULL STARS.read more

[PROFESSIONAL. AUTHENTIC. SKILLED. PASSIONATE] LC Interpreting Services has presented these four qualities that other interpreting services may not fulfill. I am beyond inspired to know how dedicated Lydia is to increase accessibility, communication, and independence in Deaf community who she loves and cherishes. Her team are sharp, proficient, and valuable! It's a top-notch agency where the Deaf customers are highly likely find the feels of being at home and comfort to express through her team.read more

St. Francis de Sales School for the Deaf in Brooklyn uses LC Interpreting Service on a regular basis for our ASL interpreting needs. This agency, their office staff and their interpreters are always professional, knowledgeable and skilled. Contacting the agency is easy, for information, questions or scheduling and their website is user friendly as well. A great working relationship is fostered from both sides. Great people, great agency!read more

Amazing Experience. The interpreting service was amazing. I was able to get 100% information from the Landmark Forum. The interpreters always make sure me and other deaf people are following on what is happening in the forum. Highly recommend to have this agency interpreting for any event in the future.read more

Exceptional. Lydia and her team are prompt, respectful, and fully committed to bringing our project to life for our deaf and hard of hearing audience. The most personalized and thoughtful customer service I've ever encountered in this industry.read more

Had a great experience with LC. They were professional, reliable, and sent a highly qualified interpreter. They listened to our needs and were able to select an interpreter who was a great match for our child.read more

Lydia was consistently excellent and very professional with her translation. We were conducting a technical class, and she worked ahead of time ensure she knew any specific technical terms, and maintained consistency with other translators. With her help we were able to build a strong deaf + hearing student community, and increase interactions between students. I would absolutely hire her again at the drop of a hat!read more

Lydia Callis and her company are among the best in the profession. Knowledgeable, smart, professional, courteous, and a pleasure to work with. The professional school I work for requires top notch interpreters for students to get thorough a rigorous program and law students demand high quality services. Whether it's a strictly doctrinal class or a seminar with a lot of class participation, Lydia provides the best person for the job. I am confident when Lydia is on the job that the students are being served well. read more

Lydia was a great ASL-interpreter for my Native Creative Concierge clients. She was very professional but also easy-going and fun! Even when things didn't go as planned (good and "bad") she went with the flow.
The good? She interpreted for a German slam poet who was being interviewed for a documentary. The bad? She stayed with my group and I for an extra hour when time ran over.
When I worked with her, she also had a student with her and that was a tremendous help to the group. Lydia is still a student in some ways -- she expressed genuine interest in learning about me and NYC as I led my group -- always learning, I think that can only make someone a better teacher. I even picked up a few signs by the end of our time together.
My clients were very pleased with her services. Her genuine interest in my clients and not only "providing a service" was not lost on any of us. I would definitely recommend or refer future hearing-impaired clients to Lydia for ASL interpreting services. read more